How much influence does the Grange have? I remember it from when I was a kid in Connecticut (there were still real farmers in the state and we had a Grange hall) but know nothing of its history and power.
The Grange was started in 1867 to provide education to farmers and rural communitties. By 1873 it held a majority on many state's legislatures. This majority allowed them to pass legislation to regulate the railroads. At the California Constutional Convention in 1878, on quarter of the delegates were Grange members. The Grange is still very effective in pushing policy.
National Grange Legislative Department
The Grange is not just for farmers any more. It is for everyone who wishes to be political and have a real effect on legislation.